book_id
stringlengths 2
6
| title
stringclasses 1
value | author
stringclasses 1
value | conversations
listlengths 1
5.07k
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|---|---|---|---|
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's my dear girl, she said,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Commencement is a good deal like a funeral, isn't it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It isn't as cheerful as it might be, Joy answered, checking off an examination paper."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is hard for the girls who aren't coming back. I hear that Annabel is positively sick over it. I had no idea she was so fond of the school."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, it isn't altogether the school--it's the girls. Annabel is so loyal and she gives so much of herself in her friendships."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There's something I want very much to say to you, Blue Bonnet, she began."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hardly know where to commence. It's this--principally: I want to thank _you_ for the position that has been offered me in this school next year."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank--me, she stammered."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, me?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Because without you I never should have had it. You helped me find it--and myself, Blue Bonnet. You remember the trouble we had-- A deep crimson for a moment dyed Joy's face, but her voice never faltered, nor did her eyes leave Blue Bonnet's."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Up to that time no one ever understood me--I think I didn't understand myself--quite. And you were kind to me--you tried to help me--make the girls like me. I can never forget it--never! Any more than I can repay you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I couldn't have done anything else, Joy, and have been human, so don't give me too much credit--please. I don't deserve any."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And you're going to teach German? How perfectly splendid!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes; and that isn't all. Miss North is taking me to Dresden with her for the summer. I am to go into a German family to perfect my accent, where I shall not hear a word of English until next September."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Joy!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Isn't it wonderful? Oh, Blue Bonnet, I don't know how all these things have come to me. They are so much more than I deserve; but I shall try hard to be worthy and to do Miss North credit. You have no idea how I long to make it up to her."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mary wants you to come down-stairs and meet her mother, Blue Bonnet, Carita said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She came for Commencement. Peggy's mother will be here to-morrow. Oh, dear, I wish Texas wasn't so far off."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Annabel's mother is here too, Mary said, leading the way down-stairs."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She's b-e-a-utiful. Annabel looks just like her."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, you won't--you just sha'n't cry! she said to herself after a moment's struggle for self-control. The sight of so many girls had awakened all the old longings."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You've got the _best Uncle_ that ever was born into the world--_the best Grandmother--the best Aunt_! You haven't any right to feel sorry for yourself;"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There, she said, tying the last bow with care."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's ready. I'm just going to draw the water for Annabel's bath, Sue; she'll be up in a second. Suppose you pick up the room a bit. Looks like a cyclone had struck it. Annabel can't dress in such a muss."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My, but I'm late! Do you think I can dress in six minutes? It lacks just that much of twelve o'clock and some of the boys have arrived already. I saw Mr. Billings pacing the floor in the living-room, Sue. Why don't you go down if you're ready? Blue Bonnet will help me."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Your gown is perfect, Annabel, she said, giving an extra pat here and there, or trying to, between Annabel's quick movements."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I doubt if you'll look a speck prettier to-night in your white lace. Pink certainly is your color. You had it on the first time I saw you. I remember writing Uncle Cliff about you."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, aren't they lovely! The two prettiest girls in school! What a love of a gown Annabel's got! Isn't Blue Bonnet a dream?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A kiss! A kiss! they cried."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You've got to pay toll!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can hardly wait until five o'clock, Mary said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm dying to get Annabel's flowers for her."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here they are, Annabel! Your flowers! Quick, the scissors! She waved the long box triumphantly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I knew he wouldn't forget. Oh, the beauties--roses! Roses!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bring your clothes in here, Blue Bonnet, and I'll fasten you up, Annabel said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No; but we're not going to talk about that now,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I like your Mr. Judson, awfully, Blue Bonnet, Annabel said, as she polished her nails vigorously."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's terribly good looking! I don't know why--but I adore dark men. I suppose I should like blonds--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why _my_ Mr. Judson? Blue Bonnet interrupted."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's Carita's cousin--that's why I asked him to-night. I was awfully disappointed that Alec Trent couldn't come."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He's the one you're sort of a sister to, isn't he? Well--he's very nice, but I should choose Mr. Judson for a life study--I _think_. There's something sort of splendid and inspiring about him. He's so frank and unusual."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's just Western--that's all, Blue Bonnet said with a degree of satisfaction."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Would you wear these gold beads or the corals, Annabel?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The corals, by all means, with that white gown. And put one of those pink roses in your hair--there, low, like that. My, but you're sweet. I love you in that gown!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This gown is a little gift from Uncle Cliff. We went shopping the other day all by ourselves. I wanted to pick up a few little things for the girls and to get you a graduation present. By the way, I believe I'll give it to you now--I'll run get it. Maybe you might like to wear it to-night."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Blue Bonnet! How perfectly darling of you! Oh, isn't it exquisite!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm so glad you like it, Annabel. I love the sentiment of it. It's a friendship circle--never ending--never beginning, see?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I feel that way about our friendship--it never seemed to begin--it just _was_, from the start--and I hope it will never end!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Blue Bonnet! Stop! You're going to make me cry--and I can't now. I haven't time. You know I haven't a particle of sense when I get started."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I shall wear it always, _always_, she managed to say as she pinned it in the lace of her gown,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm going to sprinkle these roses and leave them in Annabel's bathtub,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And I'll do the same with Blue Bonnet's,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "DEAREST BLUE BONNET:--Thank you so much for letting me help you all day, and for taking care of the flowers. I have had a beautiful time. You were the prettiest girl in the room to-night. Wasn't it sweet of Alec to send those flowers all the way from Washington? I think he has forgiven you for what happened in Woodford. Good night. Sweet dreams. CARITA."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts. Guard them accordingly."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Aren't you going to take 'Louise' and the cat, Annabel?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why not?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They're willed. We're going to pass them on to the next crowd--the girls who have this room."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look behind this calendar. 'A word to the wise is sufficient.'"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon I'll say good-by, girls, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Carita and I are going over to the hotel to spend the night with Grandmother and Aunt Lucinda. Hope to see _you_ next year, Sue, and you too, Wee."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is it good-by, Blue Bonnet?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not good-by, Annabel, Blue Bonnet answered bravely."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not _good-by_--it's just--_auf wiedersehen_."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The book's heroine, Blue Bonnet, has the very finest kind of wholesome, honest, lively girlishness."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A healthy, natural atmosphere breathes from every chapter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is bound to become popular because of its wholesomeness and its many human touches."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It cannot fail to prove fascinating to girls in their teens."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The author's intimate detail and charm of narration gives the reader an interesting story of the heroine's war activities."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is an inspiring story of the unfolding of life for a young girl--a story in which there is plenty of action to hold interest and wealth of delicate sympathy and understanding that appeals to the hearts of young and old."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Only Henrietta"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "One of the most noteworthy stories for girls issued this season. The life of Henrietta is made very real, and there is enough incident in the narrative to balance the delightful characterization."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The heroine deserves to have this story develop into a series of books; a wholesome, sparkling, satisfying story of American girlhood."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The chief charm of the story is that it contains so much of human nature. It is so real that it touches the heart strings."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Joe, the Circus Boy, and"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Martie Twins."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Miss Allen does not write impossible stories, but delightfully pins her little folk right down to this life of ours, in which she ranges vigorously and delightfully."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Allen certainly knows how to please the children and tells them stories that never fail to charm."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Such books as this are an admirable means of stimulating among the young Americans of to-day interest in the story of their pioneer ancestors and the early days of the Republic."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The recital of the daring deeds of the frontier is not only interesting but instructive as well and shows the sterling type of character which these days of self-reliance and trial produced."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The story is told with spirit, and is full of adventure."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Vivid in style, vigorous in movement, full of dramatic situations, true to historic perspective, this story is a capital one for boys."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There is plenty of lively adventure and action and the story is well told."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The story is full of spirited action and contains much valuable historical information."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is a book that cheers, that inspires to higher thinking; it knits hearts; it unfolds neighborhood plans in a way that makes one tingle to try carrying them out, and most of all it proves that in daily life, threads of wonderful issues are being woven in with what appears the most ordinary of material, but which in the end brings results stranger than the most thrilling fiction."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is a clean, wholesome, hearty story, well told and full of incident. It carries one through experiences that hearten and brighten the day."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is a bright, entertaining story, with happy girls, good times, natural development, and a gentle earnestness of general tone."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The story is told in easy and entertaining style and is a most delightful narrative, especially for young people. It will also make the older readers feel younger, for while reading it they will surely live again in the days of their youth."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The author has again produced a story that is replete with wholesome incidents and makes Peggy more lovable than ever as a companion and leader."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It possesses a plot of much merit and through its 324 pages it weaves a tale of love and of adventure which ranks it among the best books for girls."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "More of such books should be written, books that acquaint young readers with historical personages in a pleasant, informal way."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mr. Johnston has done faithful work in this volume, and his relation of battles, sieges and struggles of these famous Indians with the whites for the possession of America is a worthy addition to United States History."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is the kind of a book that will have a great fascination for boys and young men."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The tales are more than merely interesting; they are entrancing, stirring the blood with thrilling force."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The accounts are not only authentic, but distinctly readable, making a book of wide appeal to all who love the history of actual adventure."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The book is an epitome of some of the wildest and bravest adventures of which the world has known."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The pages of this book have the charm of romance without its unreality. The book illuminates, with lifelike portraits, the history of the World War."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are these stories interesting? Let a boy read them; and tell you. He will pick out 'the best machine gun in the world;' the man who worked eighteen to twenty hours a day; the man who kodaked the earth; the inventor who died in debt; the case in which Lincoln earned his first fee; the secret of Woolworth's success and the man who says 'I can't be bothered eating.'"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "As fascinating as fiction are these biographies, which emphasize their humble beginning and drive home the truth that just as every soldier of Napoleon carried a marshal's baton in his knapsack, so every American youngster carries potential success under his hat."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "An informing, interesting and inspiring book for boys."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Opportunity beckons every boy, and this book may suggest the route to be followed. It is well worth reading."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No works in juvenile fiction contain so many of the elements that stir the hearts of children and grown-ups as well as do the stories so admirably told by this author."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The story should be one of the influences in the life of every child to whom good stories can be made to appeal."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This touching and pleasing story is told with a wealth of interest coupled with enlivening descriptions of the country where its scenes are laid and of the people thereof."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "These stories are written for children in the 'believing years,' but their literary value is so distinct that any book lover is enriched by their possession."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The stories are music in prose--they are like pearls on a chain of gold--each word seems exactly the right word in the right place; the stories sing themselves out, they are so beautifully expressed."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do Something, a roly-poly fairy, who is the embodiment of all that is bright and sunshiny. He wears a continuous smile and is forever on the move, making up new games and stories for boys and girls. No child can fail to be entranced by the story; and, once imbued with the spirit of"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do Something,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Little Glad Heart."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This is a peculiarly interesting little book, written in the simple, vivacious style that makes these little manuals as delightful to read as they are instructive."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is comprehensive and practical, and yet revealingly instructive. It takes a little girl who lives alone with her mother, and shows how her mother taught her the art of sewing in its various branches. The illustrations aid materially."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The author is to be congratulated on having written such an appealing book for girls."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It cannot fail to appeal to the lovers of good things in girls' books."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The diverse characters in the boarding-school are strongly drawn, the incidents are well developed and the action is never dull."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A healthy, natural atmosphere breathes from every chapter."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A charming story of the ups and downs of the life of a dear little maid."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Just the sort of book to amuse, while its influence cannot but be elevating."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The story is sweet and fascinating, such as many girls of wholesome tastes will enjoy."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nancy shows throughout that she is a splendid young woman, with plenty of pluck."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The story is refreshing."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The whole range of section railroading is covered in the story."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A vivacious account of the varied and often hazardous nature of railroad life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is a book that can be unreservedly commended to anyone who loves a good, wholesome, thrilling, informing yarn."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The story is intensely interesting."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Boy Scouts of America."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The best book for boys I have ever read!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Queen Hildegarde and ending with"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Merryweathers,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Little ones will understand and delight in the stories and poems."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Little Colonel stories in the Cosy Corner Series,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Little Colonel,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Two Little Knights of Kentucky, and"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Giant Scissors,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Road of the Loving Heart, that famous highway, built by the natives of Hawaii, from their settlement to the home of Robert Louis Stevenson, as a memorial of their love and respect for the man who lived and labored among them, and whose example of a loving heart has never been forgotten. This story of a little princess and her faithful pet bear, who finally do discover"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Road of the Loving Heart,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A mighty attractive volume in which the owner may record the good times she has on decorated pages, and under the directions as it were of Annie Fellows Johnston."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Little Colonel"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Little Colonel Series."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Little Colonel's Hero,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No one could tell the story of the Red Cross with more vividness and enthusiasm than this author, and here she is at her best. No book published during the Great War is more valuable and timely than this appealing story of the beginning of the Red Cross."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It deserves a place in every school as well as in every home where the work of the Red Cross is appreciated."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not only VERY interesting, but has large educational value."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The book is a very clever handling of the greatest event in the history of the world."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mrs. Johnston is a faithful interpreter of child life."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "House Party and the"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Holidays."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Its simple language and fine sentiment will charm every reader."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The truest portrayals of child life ever written."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ole Mammy's Torment has been fitly called"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nearly every one of his paragraphs is a splendid word picture. One can feel the very October chill in the air as one reads of the little lakes in the forest where the white stallion watched the wild ducks migrating and the caribou filing past.... Nowhere in all literature can be found more wonderfully beautiful descriptions."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mothers and fathers and kind elder sisters who take the little ones to bed and rack their brains for stories will find this book a treasure."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Children will call for these stories over and over again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Little ones will understand and delight in the stories and their parents will read between the lines and recognize the poetic and artistic work of the author."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Once upon a time there was a man who knew little children and the kind of stories they liked, so he wrote four books of Sandman's stories, all about the farm or the sea, and the brig _Industry_, and this book is one of them."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here is a fine collection of poems for mothers and friends to use at the twilight hour. They are not of the soporific kind especially. They are wholesome reading when most wide-awake and of such a soothing and delicious flavor that they are welcome when the lights are low."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oz stories teem with favorites new and old, for children miss any old character and immediately demand reinstatement, so, after long experience, Mr. Baum brought along the old and created new ones for each succeeding book, until now"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "THE EMERALD CITY OF OZ"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Palace of Romance, the"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Land of the Mifkets,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Highland and Lowland,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nobody, said Cap'n Bill, solemnly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why not?"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "and one"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "and he often said the wooden one was the best of the two. Once Cap'n Bill had commanded and owned the"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Anemone,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Trot,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why hasn't anybody seen a mermaid and lived?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But if anyone happens to see 'em, what then, Cap'n?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, he answered, slowly wagging his head,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "S'pose they know how to swim, Cap'n Bill?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That don't make any diff'rence, Trot. The mermaids live deep down, an' the poor mortals never come up again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But why do folks dive in the water when the mermaids smile an' wink?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mermaids, he said, gravely,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Have they got arms, Cap'n Bill?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nobody?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nobody a tall."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then how do you know, Cap'n Bill?"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look, Trot; ain't that a brig out there?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How does anybody know about mermaids, if those who have seen them never lived to tell about them?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Know what about 'em, Trot?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "About their green and pink scales, and pretty songs, and wet hair."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They don't know, I guess. But mermaids jes' natcherly has to be like that, or they wouldn't be mermaids."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Somebody _must_ have lived, Cap'n Bill, she declared, positively."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Other fairies have been seen by mortals; why not mermaids?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "P'raps they have, Trot; p'raps they have, he answered, musingly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm tellin' you as it was told to me; but I never stopped to inquire into the matter so clost, before. Seems like folks wouldn't know so much about mermaids if they hadn't seen 'em; an' yet accordin' to all accounts the victim is bound to get drownded."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "P'raps, suggested Trot, softly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That might 'a' been, Trot; that might 'a' been,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How do the mermaids live? she asked."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are they in caves, or just in the water like fishes, or how?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can't say, Trot, he replied."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've asked divers about that, but none of 'em ever run acrost a mermaid's nest yet, as I've heard of."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If they're fairies, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mebbe so, Trot; but damp. They're sure to be damp, you know."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'd like to see a mermaid, Cap'n Bill,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What, an' git drownded?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No; and live to tell the tale. If they're beautiful, and laughing, and sweet, there can't be much harm in them, I'm sure."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mermaids is mermaids, remarked Cap'n Bill, in his most solemn voice."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It wouldn't do us any good to mix up with 'em, Trot."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "May--re! May--re!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, Mamma!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You an' Cap'n Bill come in to supper."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It isn't a bit rough this morning. Let's have a boat ride, Cap'n Bill,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Suits me to a T,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Whither away, Commodore Trot?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't care, Cap'n. It's just fun enough to be on the water,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's Dead Man's Cave, 'cause a skellington was found there, observed the child, as they passed a dark yawning mouth in the cliff."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And that's Bumble Cave, 'cause the bumblebees make nests in the top of it. And here's Smuggler's Cave, 'cause the smugglers used to hide things in it."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And here's Echo Cave, she continued, dreamily, as they slowly moved along the coast;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We've never been into that cave, Cap'n, she remarked, looking at the small hole in the cliff--an archway through which the water flowed."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Let's go in now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What for, Trot?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To see if there's a giant there."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "H-m. Aren't you 'fraid?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No; are you? I just don't b'lieve it's big enough for a giant to get into."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Your father was in there once, remarked Cap'n Bill,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's low tide now, returned Trot."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And how could any giant live in there if the roof is so low down?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, he couldn't, mate. I reckon they must have called it Giant's Cave 'cause it's so big, an' not 'cause any giant man lived there."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let's go in, said the girl, again;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'd like to 'splore it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "All right, replied the sailor."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It'll be cooler in there than out here in the sun. We won't go very far, for when the tide turns we mightn't get out again."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look out fer your head, Trot!"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Good morning, Mayre,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did--did you hear that, Cap'n Bill?"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The--the--most beauti-ful-est--in all the world! murmured Cap'n Bill, in a voice of horror;"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you--a--a--mermaid?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, dear,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are all mermaids!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are you part fishes?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, we are all mermaid, replied the one with the brown hair."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The fishes are partly like us, because they live in the sea and must move about. And you are partly like us, Mayre dear, but have awkward stiff legs so you may walk on the land. But the mermaids lived before fishes and before mankind, so both have borrowed something from us."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then you must be fairies, if you've lived always,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We are, dear; we are the water fairies,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We--we're--goners, Trot!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess not, Cap'n, she answered calmly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "These pretty mermaids aren't going to hurt us, I'm sure."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, indeed, said the first one who had spoken."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If we were wicked enough to wish to harm you our magic could reach you as easily upon the land as in this cave. But we love little girls dearly, and wish only to please them and make their lives more happy."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I believe that!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Guess why we have appeared to you,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We heard you say yesterday you would like to see a mermaid, and so we decided to grant your wish."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That was real nice of you,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Also we heard all the foolish things Cap'n Bill said about us, remarked the brown haired one, smilingly;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I on'y said what I've heard, protested Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Never havin' seen a mermaid afore, I couldn't be ackerate; an' I never expected to see one an' live to tell the tale."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "May I see your scales, please? And are they green and purple and pink, like Cap'n Bill said?"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We--We're--Goners"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Would you like to visit our kingdom, and see all the wonders that exist below the sea?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'd like to, replied Trot, promptly;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That you would, mate!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, no, said the mermaid."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We would make you both like one of ourselves, and then you could live within the water as easily as we do."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't know as I'd like it, said the child;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You need not stay with us a moment longer than you please, returned the mermaid, smiling as if amused at the remark."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Whenever you are ready to return home we promise to bring you to this place again and restore to you the same forms you are now wearing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Would I have a fish's tail?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You would have a mermaid's tail,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What color would my scales be--pink, or purple?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You may choose the color yourself."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Look a' here, Trot! said Cap'n Bill, in excitement,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "declared the little girl."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We don't get such inv'tations every day, Cap'n; and if I don't go now I may never find out how the mermaids live."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't care how they live, myself, said Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I jes' want 'em to let _me_ live."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There's no danger,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do' know 'bout that. That's what all the other folks said when they dove after the mermaids an' got drownded."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Who?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know who; but I've heard tell--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You've heard that no one ever saw a mermaid and lived,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To tell the tale, he added, nodding."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "An' if we dives down, like they says, we won't live ourselves."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, if you are afraid, don't come. You may row your boat out of this cave and never see us again, if you like. We merely thought it would please little Mayre, and were willing to show her the sights of our beautiful home."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'd like to see 'em, all right,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So would I, admitted Cap'n Bill;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't you believe us? asked the mermaid, fixing her lovely eyes on those of the old sailor and smiling prettily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are you afraid to trust us to bring you safely back?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "N--n--n-o, said Cap'n Bill;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then you'll have to come with me, said Trot, decidedly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She'd scold me inter shivers! moaned Cap'n Bill, with a shudder."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess I'd ruther take my chances down below."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All right; I'm ready, Miss Mermaid, said Trot."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What shall I do? Jump in, clothes an' all?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Give me your hand, dear, answered the mermaid, lifting a lovely white arm from the water. Trot took the slender hand and found it warm and soft, and not a bit"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My name is Clia, continued the mermaid,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come on in, Cap'n! It didn't hurt a bit!"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Take my hand, please, Cap'n Bill,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Law sakes! he gasped."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Here's me in the water with my rheumatics! I'll be that stiff termorrer I can't wiggle."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're wigglin' all right now, observed Trot."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's a fine tail you've got, Cap'n, an' its green scales is jus' beautiful."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are they green, eh?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Green as em'ralds, Cap'n. How do they feel?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Feel, Trot--feel? Why, this tail beats that ol' wooden leg all holler! I kin do stunts now that I couldn't 'a' done in a thousand years with ol' peg."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And don't be afraid of the rheumatism, advised the Princess."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No mermaid ever catches cold or suffers pain in the water."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Is Cap'n Bill a mermaid now?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, he's a mer_man_, I suppose, laughed the pretty princess."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But when he gets home he will be just Cap'n Bill again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wooden leg an' all?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To be sure, my dear."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, my dear, if you are ready we will begin our journey, for it is a long way to our palaces."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "All right,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will you allow me to guide you, Cap'n Bill?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "O' course, ma'am,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My name is Merla, she continued,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We have left the cave now, said Clia,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I s'pose there are no winding roads in the ocean,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, yes, indeed. At the bottom the way is far from being straight or level, replied Clia."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But we are in mid-water now, where nothing will hinder our journey, unless--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Unless what?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Unless we meet with disagreeable creatures, said the Princess."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The mid-water is not as safe as the very bottom, and that is the reason we are holding your hands."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What good would that do?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You must remember that we are fairies, said Princess Clia."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "For that reason nothing in the ocean can injure us; but you two are mortals, and therefore not entirely safe at all times unless we protect you."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will they hurt us?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, indeed, laughed the Princess."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Fishes are stupid creatures mostly, and this family is quite harmless."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How about sharks?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sharks may indeed be dangerous to you, replied Clia;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't get careless, Cap'n,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I surely won't, mate, he replied."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You see, I didn't use to be 'fraid o' sharks, 'cause if they came near I'd stick my wooden leg at 'em. But now, if they happens to fancy these green scales, it's all up with ol' Bill."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Never fear, said Merla;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll take care of you on our journey, and in our palaces you will find no sharks at all."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can't they get in?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No. The palaces of the mermaids are inhabited only by themselves."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is there anything else to be afraid of in the sea?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "One or two things, my dear, answered Princess Clia."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course, we mermaids have great powers, being fairies; yet among the sea people is one nearly as powerful as we are, and that is the devilfish."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I know, said Trot;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've seen 'em."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You have seen the smaller ones, I suppose, which sometimes rise to the surface or go near shore, and are often caught by fishermen, said Clia;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Those ones are bad enough, though, declared Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If you know any worse ones I don't want a interduction to 'em."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The monster devilfish inhabit caves in the rugged, mountainous regions of the ocean, resumed the Princess,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hope we won't,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "None for me, added Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Devils of any sort ought to be give a wide berth, an' devilfishes is worser ner sea serpents."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, do you know the sea serpents?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not much I don't, answered the sailor;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did they ever live to tell the tale?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sometimes, he replied."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They're jes' _or_-ful creatures, mate."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How easy it is to be mistaken, said Princess Clia, softly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We know the sea serpents very well, and we like them."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You do!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, dear. There are only three of them in all the world, and not only are they harmless, but quite bashful and shy. They are kind-hearted, too, and although not beautiful in appearance, they do many kind deeds and are generally beloved."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where do they live?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The oldest one, who is king of this ocean, lives quite near us, said Clia."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "His name is Anko."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How old is he?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No one knows. He was here before the ocean came, and he stayed here because he learned to like the water better than the land as a habitation. Perhaps King Anko is ten thousand years old--perhaps twenty thousand. We often lose track of the centuries down here in the sea."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's pretty old, isn't it, said Trot."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Older than Cap'n Bill, I guess."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Summat, chuckled the sailorman;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh yes, he has, responded Merla, with a laugh."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And so have his two brothers--Unko and Inko. They each have an ocean of their own, you know; and once every hundred years they come here to visit their brother Anko. So we've seen all three many times."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, how old are mermaids, then?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are like all ladies of uncertain age, rejoined the Princess, with a smile."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We don't care to tell."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Older than Cap'n Bill?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, dear,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But we haven't any gray whiskers, added Merla, merrily,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How much farther do we have to go?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are you getting tired?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, said he;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is true, sir, replied the Princess."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We have purposely led you through the mid-water, hoping you would see nothing to alarm you until you get more accustomed to our ocean life. Moreover, we are able to travel more swiftly here. How far do you think we have already come, Cap'n?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, 'bout two mile,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, we are now hundreds of miles from the cave where we started,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You don't mean it!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then there's magic in it,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "True, my dear. To avoid tiring you, and to save time, we have used a little of our fairy power, said Clia."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The result is that we are nearing our home. Let us go downward a bit, now, for you must know that the mermaid palaces are at the very bottom of the ocean--and in its deepest part."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't believe I weigh anything at all,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No more do I, Trot, said he."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But that's nat'ral, seein' as we're under water so far. What bothers me most is how we manage to breathe, havin' no gills, like fishes have."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are you sure we haven't any gills?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sure. Ner the mermaids haven't any, either,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, said Trot,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have guessed correctly, my dear. Go a little slower, now, for the palaces are in sight."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just before you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In that grove of trees?"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "These are swordfishes,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are they dang'rous?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not to us, was the reply."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The swordfishes are among our most valued and faithful servants, guarding the entrances to the gardens which surround our palaces. If any creatures try to enter uninvited these guards fight them and drive them away. Their swords are sharp and strong, and they are fierce fighters, I assure you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've known 'em to attack ships, an' stick their swords right through the wood,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Those belonged to the wandering tribes of swordfishes, explained the Princess."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "These, who are our servants, are too sensible and intelligent to attack ships."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Welcome! said Clia, in her sweet voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Here you are surrounded only by friends and are in perfect safety. Please accept our hospitality as freely as you desire, for we consider you honored guests. I hope you will like our home,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are sure to, dear Princess,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, there is a roof, or we would be unable to keep all the sea people out of our palace. But the roof is made of glass, to admit the light."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Glass! cried the astonished child."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then it must be an awful big pane of glass."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is, agreed Clia."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Our roofs are considered quite wonderful, and we owe them to the fairy powers of our queen. Of course, you understand there is no natural way to make glass under water."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, indeed, said Cap'n Bill. And then he asked:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Does your queen live here?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes. She is waiting now, in her throne room, to welcome you. Shall we go in?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'd just as soon,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Her Majesty is awaiting the strangers, Princess Clia, announced one of these."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You are asked to enter at once."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come, then,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Welcome, Mayre, she said;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's all mighty cur'ous an' strange like, said the sailor, slowly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'd no idee you mermaids were like this, at all!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Allow me to explain that it was to correct your wrong ideas about us that led me to invite you to visit us, replied the Queen."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We usually pay little heed to the earth people, for we are content in our own dominions; but, of course, we know all that goes on upon your earth. So, when Princess Clia chanced to overhear your absurd statements concerning us, we were greatly amused and decided to let you see, with your own eyes, just what we are like."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm glad you did,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now that you are here, continued the Queen, in a cordial, friendly tone,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm much obliged to you, ma'am, said Trot;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll arrange all that,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will make your mother forget the passage of time, so she will not realize how long you are away. Then she cannot worry."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Can you do that?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Very easily. I will send your mother into a deep sleep that will last until you are ready to return home. Just at present she is seated in her chair by the front window, engaged in knitting. The queen paused to raise an arm and wave it slowly to and fro. Then she added:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now your good mother is asleep, little Mayre, and instead of worries I promise her pleasant dreams."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Won't somebody rob the house while she's asleep?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, dear. My charm will protect the house from any intrusion."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's fine!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's jes' won-erful! said Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wish I knew it was so. Trot's mother has a awful sharp tongue when she's worrited."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You may see for yourselves,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you satisfied?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, yes! cried Trot."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But how could you do it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is a form of mirage, was the reply."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are able to bring any earth scene before us whenever we wish. Sometimes these scenes are reflected above the water, so that mortals also observe them."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've seen 'em, said Cap'n Bill, nodding."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've seen mirages; but I never knowed what caused 'em, afore now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Whenever you see anything you do not understand, and wish to ask questions, I will be very glad to answer them,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "One thing that bothers me, said Trot,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is because no water really touches you, explained the Queen."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Your bodies have been made just like those of the mermaids, in order that you may fully enjoy your visit to us. One of our peculiar qualities is that water is never permitted to quite touch our bodies, or our gowns. Always there remains a very small space, hardly a hair's breadth between us and the water, which is the reason we are always warm and dry."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I see, said Trot."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's why you don't get soggy, or withered."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Exactly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I s'pose that's how we can breathe without gills,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes; the air space is constantly replenished from the water, which contains air, and this enables us to breathe as freely as you do upon the earth."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But we have fins,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes; they allow us to guide ourselves as we swim, and so are very useful,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They make us more finished, said Cap'n Bill, with a chuckle. Then, suddenly becoming grave, he asked:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How 'bout my rheumatics, ma'am? Ain't I likely to get stiffened up with all this dampness?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, indeed, Aquareine answered;"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, there is King Anko, said the Queen, following the child's gaze."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Open a door and let him in, Clia, for I suppose our old friend is anxious to see the earth people."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Won't he hurt us?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Who, Anko? Oh, no, my dear! We are very fond of the sea serpent, who is king of this ocean, although he does not rule the mermaids. Old Anko is a very agreeable fellow, as you will soon discover."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can he talk?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, indeed."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And can we understand what he says?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perfectly, replied the Queen."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have given you power, while you remain here, to understand the language of every inhabitant of the sea."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's nice,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Good morning, your Majesty. I hope you are quite well?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Quite well, thank your Majesty, answered Anko; and then he turned to the strangers."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose these are the earth folks you were expecting?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, returned the Queen;"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The girl is young and the man is old, said King Anko, in a soft voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But I'm quite sure Cap'n Bill isn't as old as I am."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How old are you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can't say, exactly. I can remember several thousands of years back, but beyond that my memory fails me. How's your memory, Cap'n Bill?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You've got me beat, was the reply."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll give in that you're older than I am."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you well?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pretty fair, said Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How's yourself?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, I'm very well, thank you, answered Anko."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I never remember to have had a pain but three times in my life. The last time was when Julius Sneezer was on earth."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You mean Julius Cæsar,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No; I mean Julius Sneezer, insisted the Sea Serpent."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That was his real name--Sneezer. They called him Cæsar sometimes, just because he took everything he could lay hands on. I ought to know, because I saw him when he was alive. Did you see him when he was alive, Cap'n Bill?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon not,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That time I had a toothache, continued Anko;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did it hurt to pull it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hurt! exclaimed the Sea Serpent, groaning at the recollection."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My dear, those creatures have been called lobsters ever since! The second pain I had way back in the time of Nevercouldnever."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, I s'pose you mean Nebuchadnezzar,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you call him that, now? asked the Sea Serpent, as if surprised."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He used to be called Nevercouldnever when he was alive, but this new way of spelling seems to get everything mixed up. Nebuchadnezzar doesn't mean anything at all, it seems to me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It means he ate grass,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, no; he didn't, declared the Sea Serpent."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He was the first to discover that lettuce was good to eat, and he became very fond of it. The people may have called it grass, but they were wrong. I ought to know, because I was alive when Nevercouldnever lived. Were you alive, then?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The pain I had then, remarked Anko,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What did you do?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, first I transformed the octopus into a jelly fish, and then I waited for the tide to turn. When my tail was untied the pain stopped."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I--I don't understand that,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank you, my dear, replied the Sea Serpent, in a grateful voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "People who are always understood are very common. You are sure to respect those you can't understand, for you feel that perhaps they know more than you do."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "About how long do you happen to be?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "When last measured, I was seven thousand four hundred and eighty-two feet, five inches and a quarter. I'm not sure about the quarter, but the rest is probably correct. Adam measured me when Cain was a baby."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where's the rest of you, then?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Safe at home, I hope, and coiled up in my parlor, answered the Sea Serpent."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "When I go out I usually take along only what is needed. It saves a lot of bother and I can always find my way back in the darkest night, by just coiling up the part that has been away."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you like to be a sea serpent?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, for I'm King of my Ocean, and there is no other sea serpent to imagine he is just as good as I am. I have two brothers who live in other oceans, but one is seven inches shorter than I am, and the other several feet shorter. It's curious to talk about feet when we haven't any feet, isn't it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Seems so,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I feel I have much to be proud of, continued Anko, in a dreamy tone;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't b'lieve I'd care to live so long,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So long as seven thousand four hundred and eighty-two feet, five inches and a quarter?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No; I mean so many years,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But what can one do, if one happens to be a sea serpent? Anko inquired."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There is nothing in the sea that can hurt me, and I cannot commit suicide because we have no carbolic acid, or firearms, or gas to turn on. So it isn't a matter of choice, and I'd about as soon be alive as dead. It does not seem quite so monotonous, you know. But I guess I've stayed about long enough; so I'll go home to dinner. Come and see me, when you have time."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank you,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll take you over to his majesty's palace when we go out, and let you see how he lives."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, do,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh! exclaimed Trot;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "King Anko forgot to tell us what the third pain was about."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So he did, said Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We must ask him about that, when we see him. But I guess the ol' boy's mem'ry is failin', an' he can't be depended on for pertic'lars."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Our dinner is at noon, for we have to cook in the middle of the day, when the sun is shining,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Cook! cried Trot;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We have no need of fires, was the reply."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The glass roof of our kitchen is so curved that it concentrates the heat of the sun's rays, which are then hot enough to cook anything we wish."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But how do you get along if the day is cloudy, and the sun doesn't shine?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then we use the hot springs that bubble up in another part of the palace, Merla answered."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But the sun is the best to cook by."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How funny, said the child,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why does that surprise you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't see where you get the ice to freeze it,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is brought to us from the icebergs that float in the northern parts of the ocean,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "O' course, Trot; you orter thought o' that; I did,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And now, said Aquareine,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will send you out for a swim with Merla, who will show you some of the curious sights of our sea. You need not go far this afternoon, and when you return we will have another interesting talk together."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'd feel all right, mate, if I could have a smoke, remarked the old sailor to the child;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why not?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A pipe has to be lighted, an' a match wouldn't burn,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Try it, suggested the mermaid."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do not mind your smoking at all, if it will give you pleasure."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's a bad habit I've got, an' I'm too old to break myself of it,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, I find I can smoke, all right, remarked Cap'n Bill;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is because of the air space existing between the water and everything you have about you, explained Merla."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But now, if you will come this way, I will take you to visit some of our neighbors."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How pretty!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes; this is a rare variety of jellyfish, replied Merla."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The creatures are not so delicate as they appear, and live for a long time--unless they get too near the surface and the waves wash them ashore."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "These are the singing barnacles. They are really very amusing, and if you listen carefully you can hear what they say."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What does it all mean?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose they refer to the way barnacles have of clinging to ships, replied Merla;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do they write comic operas?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think not,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They seem to like the songs themselves,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, yes; they sing all day long. But it never matters to them whether their songs mean anything or not. Let us go in this direction and visit some other sea people."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's jus' nonsense! said Trot, scornfully."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why don't they sing 'Annie Laurie,' or 'Home, Sweet Home,' or else keep quiet?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, if they were quiet, replied Merla,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is all quiet?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Just as usual, your Highness, replied one of the guards."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mummercubble was sick this morning, and grunted dreadfully; but he's better now and has gone to sleep. King Anko has been stirring around some, but is now taking his after-dinner nap. I think it will be perfectly safe for you to swim out for a while, if you wish."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Who's Mummercubble?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He's the sea pig, replied Merla."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am glad he is asleep, for now we won't meet him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't you like him?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, he complains so bitterly of everything that he bores us, Merla answered."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mummercubble is never contented or happy for a single minute."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've seen people like that, said Cap'n Bill, with a nod of his head;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look out! suddenly cried the mermaid."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Look out for your fingers! Here are the snapping eels."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Who? Where?"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, look out for your fingers and your noses!"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stop it! said Merla;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, who cares? shouted the Eels."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We're not afraid of the mermaids."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She'll stiffen you all up again, as she did once before, said Merla,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are these earth people?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The old polliwog looks something like King Anko,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm not a polliwog! answered Cap'n Bill, angrily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm a re-spec'able sailorman, an' I'll have you treat me decent or I'll know why."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sailor! said another."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That means to float on the water--not _in_ it. What are you doing down here?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm jes' a-visitin',"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He is the guest of our queen, said Merla,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, that's all right, replied one of the biggest eels, wriggling around in a circle and then snapping at a companion, which as quickly snapped out of his way."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We know how to be polite to company as well as the mermaids. We won't hurt them."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come on, fellows; let's go scare old Mummercubble,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't like eels,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They are more mischievous than harmful, replied Merla;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, added Cap'n Bill;"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here, said the mermaid, pausing,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What are they?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Codfish, was the reply."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Their only fault is that they are too haughty and foolishly proud of their pedigree."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What insolence!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Isn't it? replied the other."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There ought to be a law to prevent these common mermaids from discussing their superiors."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My sakes! said Trot, astonished;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come, my dears, let us leave these vulgar creatures."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm not as vulgar as you are! exclaimed Trot, much offended by this speech."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where I came from we only eat codfish when there's nothing else in the house to eat."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How absurd!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Eat codfish, indeed!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, and you're pretty salty, too, I can tell you. At home you're nothing but a pick-up!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dear me! exclaimed the first fish which had spoken;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't need any interduction, replied the girl;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've eaten you, and you always make me thirsty."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Come, fellow aristocrats; let us go."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Never mind; we're going ourselves,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've heard tell of codfish aristocercy, said Cap'n Bill;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They jus' made me mad, with all their airs, observed Trot;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You surely did, mate, said the sailor;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are near Crabville now, declared Merla."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Shall we visit the crabs and see what they are doing?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, let's, replied Trot."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The crabs are lots of fun. I've often caught them among the rocks on the shore and laughed at the way they act. Wasn't it funny at dinner time to see the way they slid around with the plates?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Those were not crabs, but lobsters and crawfish, remarked the mermaid."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They are very intelligent creatures, and by making them serve us we save ourselves much household work. Of course, they are awkward and provoke us sometimes; but no servants are perfect, it is said, so we get along with ours as well as we can."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They're all right, protested the child,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Or scrubbin',"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The crabs, said Merla,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here live the fiddler crabs, said Merla;"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ready, now--ready, good fiddlers. We'll play Number 19--Hail to the Mermaids. Ready! Take aim! Fire away!"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, what do you think of that?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not much, said Trot, honestly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's it all about?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I composed it myself! said the Fiddler Crab."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But it's highly classical, I admit. All really great music is an acquired taste."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't like it, remarked Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It might do all right to stir up a racket New Year's Eve, but to call that screechin' music--"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Welcome home!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What's the difference between a mermaid and a tadpole? asked another, in a loud voice, and without a pause continued:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "These, said Merla,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They're funny, said Trot, laughing again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's almost as good as a circus. I don't think they would make me tired; but, then, I'm not a mermaid."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mr. Johnsing, asked one,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't know, Tommy Blimken, answered a big crab in the middle of the row."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because they both get tired,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How do the crabs in the sea know anything 'bout auto'biles?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, Tommy Blimken and Harry Hustle were both captured once by humans and put in an aquarium, answered the mermaid."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But one day they climbed out and escaped, finally making their way back to the sea and home again. So they are quite traveled you see, and great favorites among the crabs. While they were on land they saw a great many curious things, and so I suppose they saw automobiles."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We did, we did! cried Harry Hustle, an awkward crab with one big claw and one little one."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And we saw earth people with legs--awfully funny they were; and animals called horses, with legs; and other creatures with legs; and the people cover themselves with the queerest things--they even wear feathers and flowers on their heads, and----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, we know all about that, said Trot;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, you're lucky to get off from it and into the good water, said the Crab."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I nearly died on the earth; it was so stupid, dry and airy. But the circus was great. They held the performance right in front of the aquarium where we lived, and Tommy and I learned all the tricks of the tumblers. Hi! Come on, fellows, and show the earth people what you can do!"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here are the hermit crabs, said one of the mermaids."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They steal these shells and live in them, so no enemies can attack them."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't they get lonesome?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perhaps so, my dear. But they do not seem to mind being lonesome. They are great cowards, and think if they can but protect their lives there is nothing else to care for. Unlike the jolly crabs we have just left, the hermits are cross and unsociable."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, keep quiet and go away! said one of the hermit crabs, in a grumpy voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No one wants mermaids around here."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They're not very polite,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I know, now, why cross people are called 'crabbed', said Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They've got dispositions jes' like these 'ere hermit crabs."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Merla! what do you think? Our Flippity has just gone to glory!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "When?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just now, one replied."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We were lying in the water, talking quietly together when a spinning, shining thing came along and our dear Flippity ate it. Then he went shooting up to the top of the water and gave a flop and--went to glory! Isn't it splendid, Merla?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Poor Flippity! sighed the mermaid."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm sorry, for he was the prettiest and nicest mackerel in your whole flock."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What does it mean? asked Trot."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How did Flippity go to glory?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, he was caught by a hook, and pulled out of the water into some boat, Merla explained."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But these poor, stupid creatures do not understand that; and when one of them is jerked out of the water and disappears they have an idea he has gone to glory--which means to them some unknown, but beautiful sea."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've often wondered, said Trot,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They must know enough to know they're hooks,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, they do, replied Merla."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've seen fishes gather around a hook and look at it carefully for a long time. They well know it is a hook, and that if they bite the bait upon it they will be pulled out of the water. But they are curious to know what will happen to them afterward, and think it means happiness, instead of death. So finally, one takes the hook and disappears, and the others never know what becomes of him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why don't you tell 'em the truth?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, we do. The mermaids have warned them many times, but it does no good at all. The fish are stupid creatures."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But I wish I was Flippity, said one of the mackerel, staring at Trot with his big, round eyes."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He went to glory before I could eat the hook myself."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're lucky, answered the child."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Flippity will be fried in a pan for some one's dinner. You wouldn't like that, would you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Flippity has gone to glory!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never heard of anything so foolish,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes; it is very foolish, and very sad, answered Merla."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, if the fishes were wise, men could not catch them for food, and many poor people on your earth make their living by fishing."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It seems wicked to catch such pretty things,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do not think so, Merla replied, laughingly;"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Balloonfish, answered Merla."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They are helpless creatures, but have little spikes all over them, so their enemies dare not bite them for fear of getting pricked."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They catch these fish in the South Sea Islands and make lanterns of 'em, said Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They first skin 'em, and sew the skin up again to let it dry, and then they put candles inside and the light shines through the dried skin."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We must prepare for dinner, as it will soon begin to grow dark in the water,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where did the lamps come from?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They are not lamps, my dear, replied Merla, much amused at this suggestion;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But where do you get 'em?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "From a transparent jellyfish which naturally emits a strong and beautiful electric light, was the answer."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We have many hundreds of them in our palaces, as you will presently see."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What bothers me, mate, he said to the little girl, as they swam toward the great banquet hall where Queen Aquareine awaited them,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How's that, Cap'n? Why should we be crushed?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, ev'r'body knows that the deeper you go in the sea the more the water presses agin you, he explained."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Even the divers in their steel jackets can't stand it very deep down. An' here we be, miles from the top o' the water, I 'spect, an' we don't feel crowded a bit."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I know why, answered the child, wisely."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The water don't touch us, you see. If it did, it might crush us; but it don't. It's always held a little way off from our bodies by the magic of the fairy mermaids."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "True enough, Trot, declared the sailorman."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What an idjut I was not to think o' that myself!"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's one bad thing 'bout this mermaid palace, she said to herself;"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I shall take you this morning to the most interesting part of the ocean, where the largest and most remarkable sea creatures live. And we must visit King Anko, too, for the sea serpent would feel hurt and slighted if I did not bring my guests to call upon him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That will be nice,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is there any danger, ma'am?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think not, replied Queen Aquareine."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I cannot see that you will be exposed to any danger at all, so long as I am with you. But we are going into the neighborhood of some fierce and even terrible beings, which would attack you at once did they suspect you to be earth people. So, in order to guard your safety, I intend to draw the Magic Circle around both of you before we start."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What is the Magic Circle?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A fairy charm that prevents any enemy from touching you. No monster of the sea, however powerful, will be able to reach your body while you are protected by the Magic Circle,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, then, I'll not be a bit afraid,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Am I to have the Magic Circle drawn around me, too?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course, answered Aquareine."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You will need no other protection than that, yet Princess Clia and I will both be with you. For to-day I shall leave Merla to rule our palaces in my place until we return."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, my dear, said she,"
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "People who live upon the land know only those sea creatures which they are able to catch in nets, or upon hooks, or those which become disabled and are washed ashore, remarked the Queen, as they swam swiftly through the clear water."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And those who sail in ships see only the creatures who chance to come to the surface. But, in the deep ocean caverns are queer beings, that no mortal has ever heard of or beheld, and some of these we are to visit. We shall also see some sea shrubs and flowering weeds, which are sure to delight you with their beauty."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Good morning!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "These butterfly fish are remarkably active, said the Princess,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, so am I!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Take care, said Clia, in a low voice."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's an octopus."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, well! said the Octopus."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are you all dumb? Or don't you know enough to be civil when you meet a neighbor?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We know how to be civil to our friends,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, aren't we friends, then?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think not, said the little girl."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Octopuses are horrid creatures."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Octo_pi_, if you please; octo_pi_"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't see any pie that pleases me,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Octo_pus_ means one of us; two, or more are called octo_pi_,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I suppose a lot of you would be a whole bakery!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Our name is latin. It was given us by learned scientists years ago,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's true enough, agreed Cap'n Bill."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The learned scientists named ev'ry blamed thing they come acrost, an' gener'ly they picked out names as nobody could understand, or pernounce."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That isn't our fault, sir, said the Octopus."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Indeed, it's pretty hard for us to go through life with such terrible names. Think of the poor little sea horse. He used to be a merry and cheerful fellow, but since they named him 'hippocampus' he hasn't smiled once."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let's go, said Trot;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't like to 'sociate with octopuses."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Octo_pi_,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're jus' as horrid, whether you're puses or pies,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Horrid!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not only horrid, but horrible!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "May I ask in what way?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, ev'rybody knows that octopuses are jus' wicked an' deceitful, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Up on the earth, where I live, they call the Stannerd Oil Company an octopus, an' the Coal Trust an octopus, an'----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stop, stop! cried the monster, in a pleading voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you mean to tell me that the earth people, whom I have always respected, compare me to the Stannerd Oil Company?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's what they do,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, what a disgrace! What a deep, direful, dreadful disgrace!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "This comes of having a bad name,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is unjust! It is cruel and unjust! sobbed the creature, mournfully."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Just because we have several long arms, and take whatever we can reach, they accuse us of being like--like--oh, I cannot say it! It is too shameful--too humiliating!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come; let's go,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm not a bit sorry for him, remarked the child;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So they do me,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But the octopi are not very bad, said the Princess,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh. Are the sea devils their cousins?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes; and they are the only creatures of the ocean which we greatly fear, replied Aquareine."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hope we shall meet none to-day, for we are going near to the dismal caverns where they live."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What are the sea devils like, ma'am?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Something like the octopus you just saw, only much larger and of a bright scarlet color, striped with black, answered the Queen."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They are very fierce and terrible creatures, and nearly as much dreaded by the inhabitants of the ocean as is Zog, and nearly as powerful as King Anko himself."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Zog! Who is Zog? questioned the girl."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I haven't heard of him, before now."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We do not like to mention Zog's name, responded the Queen, in a low voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He is the wicked genius of the sea, and a magician of great power."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's he like?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He is a dreadful creature, part fish, part man, part beast and part serpent. Centuries ago they cast him off the earth into the sea, where he has caused much trouble. Once he waged a terrible war against King Anko, but the sea serpent finally conquered Zog, and drove the magician into his castle, where he now stays shut up. For if ever Anko catches the monster outside of his enchanted castle he will kill him, and Zog knows that very well."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Seems like you have your troubles down here, just as we do on top the ground,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, I'm glad old Zog is shut up in his castle, added Trot."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is it a sea castle, like your own palaces?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I cannot say, my dear, for the enchantment makes it invisible to all eyes but those of its inhabitants, replied Aquareine."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No one sees Zog now, and we scarcely ever hear of him; but all the sea people know he is here, some place, and fear his power. Even in the old days, before Anko conquered him, Zog was the enemy of the mermaids, as he was of all the good and respectable seafolk. But do not worry about the magician, I beg of you, for he has not dared to do an evil deed in many, many years."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, I'm not afraid,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm glad of that, said the Queen."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Keep together, friends, and be careful not to separate, for here comes an army of sawfishes."
}
] |
48778
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are near an island, said the Queen,"
}
] |
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